Lahiff joins the Rebels

London Irish prop Max Lahiff will make the move to Australia next season after signing for the Melbourne Rebels.

London Irish prop Max Lahiff will make the move to Australia next season after signing for the Melbourne Rebels.

Lahiff qualifies to play for Australia through his father, and has made 59 first team appearances since joining the London Irish Academy in 2009.

Lahiff, who has played a prominent role for Irish in the Aviva Premiership this season, said he was looking forward to the opportunity of playing Super Rugby in Melbourne, also paying tribute to the London Irish for giving him the opportunity to develop.

"Moving to the Rebels is an exciting opportunity for me and I am looking forward to playing in the Super Rugby competition. There are still two games left for London Irish this season and I will be playing my heart out to ensure we finish the season well" said Lahiff.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed playing for London Irish. The club signed me from school and have played an imperative part in my development as a player. I would like to thank all the supporters; they have been great to me since I have been here."

Rebels head coach, Damien Hill, said Lahiff would be suited to Super Rugby and will complement the style of rugby the Rebels are building towards.

"At only 23 years of age, he has played a considerable amount of Rugby for the London Irish at the highest level. He is a very athletic and powerful prop, which will suit the speed of Super Rugby" said Hill.

"He has the ability play both sides of the scrum, which is a valuable skill as a modern prop forward."

Lahiff will join the Rebels at the beginning of the club's off-season in October.